Microsoft Adds AI to Notepad, Paint, Snipping Tool

Microsoft Brings More AI Features to Notepad, Paint, and Snipping Tool: Here’s What’s New

In a significant leap forward for its suite of productivity tools, Microsoft has introduced a series of AI-driven updates to Notepad, Paint, and Snipping Tool. These enhancements are part of a broader push by the tech giant to integrate artificial intelligence into its core applications, aiming to enhance user experience and productivity. As of early June 2025, these updates are being rolled out to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev Channels, setting the stage for a more AI-centric future for Microsoft users.

Notepad: The AI Writing Assistant

Notepad, traditionally a simple text editor, is now equipped with AI-powered tools designed to assist users in generating and editing text. The new "Write" feature allows users to collaborate with Microsoft's AI assistant, Copilot, to create text based on user prompts. This feature is particularly useful for tasks such as drafting emails or creating content, where AI can help suggest and refine text. However, this functionality is limited to Microsoft 365 or Copilot Pro subscribers, who must use their allotted AI credits to access it[4].

Notepad's AI enhancements also include tools like Summarize and Rewrite, which let users tweak the tone or structure of their text. These tools have been part of Notepad's AI arsenal for some time and are now complemented by the more advanced Write feature[2].

Paint: AI Stickers and Object Selection

Paint, Microsoft's graphics editor, is now more interactive with the introduction of an AI-powered sticker generator. Users can describe a sticker they want to create, and Paint will generate it using AI. This feature is accessible via the Copilot menu and is limited to users with Copilot+ PCs[3][5]. Additionally, Paint includes an object select tool that uses AI to distinguish between foreground and background elements in an image, making it easier to edit specific parts of an image[2].

Snipping Tool: Perfect Screenshots

The Snipping Tool has also been enhanced with AI capabilities, most notably the "perfect screenshot" feature. This tool allows users to capture content on their screen without needing to crop or resize it afterward. It uses AI to automatically identify and refine the capture based on the content being highlighted[1][5]. Unlike some of the other AI features, this enhancement is available to all users, not just those with specific subscriptions or hardware[4].

Limitations and Future Directions

While these updates are exciting, they come with some limitations. Access to Notepad's AI features requires a Microsoft 365 or Copilot Pro subscription, and Paint's AI capabilities are restricted to Copilot+ PCs[4]. Additionally, the use of AI tools in these applications is metered, with users needing to use their allotted AI credits for each task[2].

As AI continues to evolve and become more integrated into everyday applications, it will be interesting to see how these tools are received by users and how they shape the future of productivity software. Microsoft's approach to AI is not just about enhancing existing tools but also about creating new ways for users to interact with technology.

Real-World Applications and Impacts

Beyond the tech world, these updates have significant real-world implications. For instance, AI-generated stickers in Paint could be used in educational settings to create interactive learning materials. Similarly, the AI-powered text generation in Notepad could assist writers and content creators in drafting ideas or refining their work.

Historical Context and Future Implications

The integration of AI into Microsoft's core applications is part of a broader trend in the tech industry. Companies like Google and Amazon are also exploring AI-driven tools to enhance user experience and productivity. As AI continues to advance, we can expect more sophisticated features and applications across various sectors.

Comparison of AI Features Across Microsoft Tools

Conclusion

Microsoft's AI-driven updates to Notepad, Paint, and Snipping Tool represent a significant step forward in integrating AI into everyday productivity tools. While these updates are promising, they also highlight the challenges of accessibility and the evolving role of AI in shaping the future of software. As AI continues to advance, we can expect more innovative features and applications that will redefine how we work and interact with technology.

**